sets up

USAGE SUMMARY

"sets up" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to establish, organize, or prepare something or someone for a task or situation. Here are some examples of how to use "sets up" in a sentence: - Our new manager is good at setting up efficient systems in the workplace. - The conference room was set up with chairs and a projector for the presentation. - The team set up a meeting with the client to discuss their project requirements. - The coach set up a game plan to help the team win the championship. - She sets up her booth at the farmer's market every Sunday morning. - The company set up a charitable foundation to support local community initiatives. - I need to set up my new computer before I can start working on it. - He always sets up a tent and campfire when we go camping. - The company is setting up a new office branch in a different city. - The marketing team is busy setting up social media campaigns for our new product launch.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She sets up V.P.N.

The New Yorker

The piece sets up Amazon vs. Apple.

The New York Times

This sets up a challenge for artists.

The New York Times - Arts

Each building sets up a mood.

The New York Times

That sets up an interesting clash.

The Economist

But that sets up a terrible precedent.

The New Yorker

This sets up her subsequent fall.

The New York Times - Books

The first scene sets up the situation.

The New York Times

This sets up an awkward, unstable dynamic.

The Economist

"It sets up something unexpected".

The New York Times

Legalisation sets up a two-tier system.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sets up", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being established or prepared. Use it to describe actions that create a foundation or arrangement for future events or processes.

Common error

Avoid using "sets up" when the intended meaning is simply "to begin" or "to start". "Sets up" implies preparation or arrangement, not just initiation. For example, instead of saying "He sets up playing the piano", say "He starts playing the piano".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sets up" is that of a phrasal verb. It combines the verb "set" with the preposition "up" to create a new meaning, generally involving preparation, arrangement, or establishment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is considered grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sets up" is a versatile phrasal verb widely used to describe the action of arranging, preparing, or establishing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly found in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using "sets up", ensure that the context clearly communicates the preparation or arrangement being made. Consider alternatives like "establishes" or "prepares" for subtle differences in meaning. Be mindful not to use it when simply indicating the beginning of an action without any implication of preparation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establishes

Focuses more on the act of founding or creating something in a more formal or official way.

Prepares

Emphasizes the action of making something ready for a specific purpose or event.

Arranges

Highlights the organization or ordering of elements in a particular way.

Organizes

Similar to arranges, but often implies a more systematic or structured approach.

Creates

Focuses on bringing something into existence.

Institutes

Implies the introduction or implementation of a system or policy.

Deploys

Suggests positioning or utilizing resources strategically.

Lays the groundwork

Highlights the creation of a foundation or basis for future development.

Gets ready

Informal way to indicate preparation for something.

Readies

A more formal and less common synonym for prepares.

FAQs

How can I use "sets up" in a sentence?

You can use "sets up" to describe the act of preparing or arranging something. For example, "She "sets up" the equipment before the presentation" or "The director "sets up" the scene for the next shot".

What are some alternatives to "sets up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "establishes", "prepares", or "arranges" instead of "sets up".

Is there a difference between "sets up" and "starts"?

"Sets up" implies preparation or arrangement, while "starts" simply means to begin. For instance, you "set up" a meeting, but you "start" a race.

When is it inappropriate to use "sets up"?

Avoid using "sets up" when you only mean to indicate the beginning of an activity without any implied preparation. In those cases, "begins" or "starts" would be more appropriate.